Thesis
A novel de-coupled SOFC-GT hybrid system to power commercial all-electric aircraft
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
2019
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/101909
Abstract
This study describes and evaluates two solid-oxide fuel cell/gas-turbine systems (SOFC-GT) capable of fully powering large-scale commercial all-electric aircraft (AEA) with zero emissions using liquid hydrogen fuel and superconducting electric motors driving ducted fans. The analysis departs from existing research integrating SOFCs into light-weight conceptual aircraft designs, or confining the scope to supporting roles generating supplemental electric power for existing aircraft, and instead focuses on a commercial scale AEA based on existing airframe specifications. Of the two systems analyzed, the first adheres closely standard SOFC-GT cycles with the variation that unreacted hydrogen is purified and recirculated rather than combusted to further heat the turbine inlet stream. The second system analyzed incorporates an oxygen separation membrane to decouple the fuel cell and turbomachinery sub-systems. The arrangement facilitates steady fuel cell operating pressure, high power density and improved efficiency over a broader range of operation. A detailed weight analysis describing a novel SOFC stack design identifies and addresses the challenges in meeting the required power-to-weight ratios. The resulting assessment illustrates how an SOFC based AEA can approach or exceed current jet engine performance, particularly in long range applications. Higher specific energy density of liquid hydrogen fuel, combined with the highly efficient energy conversion of SOFC and superconducting motors allows for a 10-21% increase in payload capacity for an Airbus A380 while maintaining the same range capability.
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Details
- Title
- A novel de-coupled SOFC-GT hybrid system to power commercial all-electric aircraft
- Creators
- Jeffrey Michael Collins
- Contributors
- Dustin F. McLarty (Degree Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Mechanical and Materials Engineering, School of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University; [Pullman, Washington] :
- Identifiers
- 99900525129401842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis